Health

Four warning signs of a silent killer as cases of one type of cancer DOUBLE in the young

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June 10, 2023June 10, 2023
Four warning signs of a silent killer as cases of one type of cancer DOUBLE in the young

Modern diets and fungi are among the suspects behind rising numbers among under-40s – expected to double by 2030, experts say

Colon cancer cases are expected to double in just a few years as the number of diagnoses rises sharply among young people.

Modern diets and fungi are among the suspects behind the rise in numbers among people under 40 – expected to double by 2030, experts say.

About 153,000 cases of colorectal cancer are likely to be diagnosed this year, according to the American Cancer Society. About 19,500 of these prospective patients are under the age of 50.

Experts warn that people should not take some of the symptoms most associated with cancer lightly.

It is not clear what is causing the increase in cases, but research presented by the American Society of Clinical Oncology suggests that the Cladosporium fungus may be seen more often in young people with colon tumors.

Bowel cancer is cancer that's found anywhere in the large bowel, which includes the colon and rectum.
Colon cancer is cancer that occurs anywhere in the large intestine, which includes the colon and rectum(Getty Images)

Experts believe that the fungus may be responsible for DNA damage, turning them into cancer cells, but it is not clear if this is the case.

What are the main signs to look out for?
  • Experts warn that the main symptom of colon cancer is blood in the stool.
  • Bowel habits, such as ongoing constipation or diarrhea, can also be a symptom — and any changes that might not normally be noticed can be a warning sign.
  • A constant feeling of needing to have a bowel movement even after going to the bathroom should also be discussed with a health care provider.
  • Abdominal pain with no known cause, especially if it doesn’t go away, is severe, or occurs frequently, can also be symptom of colon cancer, according to the Cleveland Clinicand it is important to seek medical attention for unusual or persistent abdominal pain.
Abdominal pain without a known cause, especially if it doesn't go away, is severe, or occurs frequently, could also be a symptom
Abdominal pain with no known cause, especially if it does not go away, is severe, or occurs frequently, can also be a symptom(Getty Images/iStockphoto)

Co-director of gastrointestinal medical oncology at the University of Colorado Medical School, Dr. Christopher Liu, said, “We don’t know why this trend is seen in many countries that have different diets and exposures and environmental factors.”